Does anyone have BCBS of Illinois?

[kagead 0]

Just starting the process with BCBS of IL. I am going through Northwestern which is one of their Blue Distinction Centers so I am hoping for a relatively smooth experience.

Thanks for the good info here.

kagead

[wanna be fit@40 0]

I have bcbs of IL. and was just approved. It was fairly easy as long as you do exactly as the dr. tells you. 3 month diet and they submit everything. seminar was in July, met dr and went over procedure in Aug. , Sept , oct and Nov were 3 month diet . Saw a cardio, psycho, and pulmo doctors in that time frame too. Submitted on Nov 9 and had an answer on Nov.30th!!!! Best of luck and do not give up. I can not wait till Jan to be banded!!!

[scoutstar29 2]

Hi Everybody. I had been looking around for more information about BCBS IL for some time before I started this whole process. Here is an update-

Starting March 15, 2011 they are switching back to a 6 month Dr. supervised diet (you need to see someone once a month for 6 months)

I always wondered how long everything takes. I am getting my procedure done at Northwestern University Medical Center with Dr. Nagel so it may be different with you. I was really good at scheduling appointments ASAP so there really want any lag time.

October 2010 – First visit with Northwestern Center for Lifestyle Medicine

November 2010- Visit with nutritionist

December 2010- Visit with therapist

December 2010- First 'class' with nutritionist

January 2011- second 'class' with nutritionist

February 2011- third and final 'class' with nutritionist

February 2011- meeting with surgeon

February 18, 2011- BCBSIL sent request for coverage

March 1 2011- approval from BCBSIL, surgery scheduled April 25, 2011

I also have to get an EKG and some blood work done before surgery. I also have to take a 4 hour class about the surgery, what happens after surgery and post-op life.

So if they are switching to a 6 month diet it really isn't a huge deal because it takes a while to get through. I recommend Northwestern because their whole program is built around getting you 1) educated and ready for surgery and 2) approved by BCBS IL (and other insurances)